a (european) morning in the west village

Chelsea came home this week after spending a month studying in Paris. She had a few days before going back to school so I wanted to plan some special outings with her. It’s kind of hard completely impossible to top Paris, but I knew she’d enjoy spending time in the city. So I got out “the list”.

Have I told you about the list? It’s a running list that I keep of things to do/eat/see in and around New York. A quick glance and I knew just how we’d spend her first day back. I chose two spots in the West Village – one of our favorite neighborhoods. They had been on the list for close to a year but we somehow never got around to them before she returned to school in the fall. The fact that they both had a decidedly European feel sealed the deal.

Our first stop was to Sockerbit – a completely charming little shop run by the nicest young couple. Sockerbit (meaning, literally “sugar cube”) is all things sweet and Scandinavian.

The decor is all-white, clean and minimalist, designed to provide the perfect background to the bins of colorful candy. And, oh, the candy! I’ve written before about my “sweet tooth“, and this was a little bit of heaven for me. Chelsea and I quickly got to work, filling our bags with a delicious assortment of the most adorable gummies, marshmallows and licorice.

We chatted with one of the owners who took pride in telling us that all of the candies are made without trans fats, artificial colors or corn syrup. And while I wouldn’t call it health food, it was certainly a step up in quality from the gummies and belts that I usually eat.

And they have a sense of humor too.

Sockerbit, you’ve spoiled me forever (can you tell I’m totally smitten with this place??)…………..

Next, we visited Buvette – possibly the most perfect little French eatery you could ever imagine. The literal translation of buvette is “refreshment stall”, but I much prefer chef Jody Williams’ vision for her restaurant. She calls it a “gastroteque,” a place for “your early-morning coffee, your luncheonette, your stand-up, sit-down dinner.”

Having read about Buvette for many months now, I knew that it would likely be crowded on a weekend evening. But I had a feeling that during a late-morning, mid-week, we’d have the place (somewhat) to ourselves. And I was right. Which was doubly great because the lack of crowds made it easier to take in all of the lovely little details.

Buvette is small – tiny – and Chelsea and I loved how it made you feel cozy and warm as you sat, munching on delicious bread while you waited for your meal. We each had a salad and I have not stopped thinking about mine (or how I  hope to duplicate it) since. It was a simple salad composed of three ingredients – shredded Brussels sprouts, grated Asiago cheese and walnuts – in a light vinaigrette. I practically licked the bowl. (I made it! I made it! Here’s the recipe!)

It once again confirmed my belief that the very best food is hardly ever the fanciest, or fussiest, or most complex. But rather a simple plate – beautifully arranged and using the very best ingredients – can be the most satisfying there is.

We finished our day at Chelsea’s beloved trio of Marc Jacobs stores – my favorite of the three is Bookmarc, where I’m always so impressed with the outstanding selection of books on display.

Okay, so it wasn’t Paris.

But it was très bon indeed.

Sockerbit
https://www.sockerbit.com/

Buvette
http://www.ilovebuvette.com/

Bookmarc
http://www.marcjacobs.com/gifts-and-special-items/bookmarc/

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12 Comments

  1. Jennifer Cullen on February 6, 2012 at 8:50 am

    Please, please, please recreated that salad and then tell us all how to make it! It sounds, and looks, like something I would want to eat every day!

    What an awesome mother daughter day!

    • sheri silver on February 6, 2012 at 5:42 pm

      I know! I know! Will work on it soon, promise!!

  2. jenny - Sugar Loco on February 6, 2012 at 9:51 am

    I was introduced to Scandinavian candies at Sugarlicious here in Denver. YUM-MIES!

    Looks like an amazing day for the two of you

    • sheri silver on February 6, 2012 at 5:41 pm

      It was so much fun, although we are now addicted! 🙂

  3. Melanie on February 6, 2012 at 9:53 am

    So cool! Next time I’m in NYC I will have to check these places out. I love your photos too.

    • sheri silver on February 6, 2012 at 5:39 pm

      Thank you so much! Would love to join you if you do! 🙂

  4. Hotly Spiced on February 6, 2012 at 9:45 pm

    How lovely to have that special time with your daughter. My sister lives in NYC and she loves the West Village. Says it’s a very special part of NY. I love the look of this lolly shop. So many temptations there. I would have walked out with a very heavy bag!

    • sheri silver on February 6, 2012 at 10:25 pm

      The West Village is, by far, my favorite part of the city. It IS very special. Oh, and we DID walk out with a very heavy bag (and went back 3 days later for more!!!!).

  5. Lisa Sperling on February 8, 2012 at 12:21 pm

    Sheri, I love your blog! It was so much fun reading your post :)) The “list” idea is brilliant and after having read this, I will actually start one for Chicago. I think I will also start a “for when we visit NYC” list – of course the venues above will be the first to make it on that list 🙂 How did your daughter like Paris? It must have been exciting for her!

    • sheri silver on February 8, 2012 at 1:40 pm

      Thank you LIsa! Chelsea LOVED Paris – it was a truly amazing experience for her, one that has shaped her in a big way. And you must let me know if you come to New York! I’ll personally plan your itinerary (and hopefully join you for a trip or two!) 🙂

      • Lisa Sperling on February 9, 2012 at 11:27 pm

        Sheri, that sounds lovely!!! And I will do the same for you, if you should visit the Midwest (e.g. Chicago or Madison, WI)! I’m happy to hear Chelsea had such a great and memorable Paris experience!

        • sheri silver on February 10, 2012 at 7:35 am

          Thanks so much! And I’m thrilled to know I have my own tour guide for when I (someday!) get to Chicago! 🙂

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Hi! I'm Sheri!

Welcome to my little corner of the web where you’ll find easy, delicious recipes, the best kitchen hacks and simple tips for turning your home into a clean haven that is free of toxins. So glad you’re here!